Antipsychotic Medication: What You Need to Know
If you or someone you care about has been prescribed an antipsychotic, you probably have a lot of questions. What does the drug actually do? How long will you need to take it? And what side effects should you watch for? This article cuts through the jargon and gives you straight‑forward answers, plus practical tips for getting the medicine safely in the UK.
How Antipsychotics Work and Why They’re Prescribed
Antipsychotics belong to a family of drugs that calm down over‑active brain pathways. They mainly target dopamine, a chemical messenger that can become too “loud” in conditions like schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, and severe depression. By dialing down dopamine, the meds help reduce hallucinations, delusions, and mood swings.
There are two main groups: typical (first‑generation) and atypical (second‑generation). Typical drugs, like haloperidol, are older and tend to cause more movement‑related side effects. Atypicals, such as risperidone, olanzapine, and aripiprazole, usually have a broader effect on other brain chemicals and often feel easier on the body, though they can bring weight gain or metabolic changes.
Choosing the Right Drug and Dosage
Finding the right antipsychotic is a bit like fitting a puzzle piece. Your doctor will look at your diagnosis, any other health issues, and how you’ve responded to meds before. Starting doses are usually low – often a “micro‑dose” taken once a day – and are increased slowly to avoid unpleasant side effects.
Typical dosing ranges (for adults) might be:
- Risperidone: 1–4 mg daily
- Olanzapine: 5–20 mg daily
- Aripiprazole: 10–30 mg daily
- Haloperidol: 0.5–5 mg daily
Never adjust your dose on your own. If you feel drowsy, dizzy, or notice a sudden mood shift, call your prescriber. Some side effects ease after a few weeks, but others, like persistent tremors or severe weight gain, need a quick medication change.
Common Side Effects and How to Manage Them
Every antipsychotic comes with a trade‑off. The most frequent complaints are:
- Sleepiness or sedation
- Dry mouth and constipation
- Weight gain or increased appetite
- Restlessness (akathisia)
- Muscle stiffness or tremors (especially with typical drugs)
Simple tricks can help: stay hydrated, add fiber to your diet, and keep a regular exercise routine. If weight climbs quickly, ask your doctor about switching to a lower‑weight‑gain option or adding a brief course of a medication that counteracts the effect.
Rare but serious side effects include high blood sugar, high cholesterol, and a condition called tardive dyskinesia, which causes involuntary facial movements. Regular blood tests and movement checks are key, especially after you’ve been on the drug for several months.
Getting Antipsychotics Safely in the UK
In the UK you need a prescription from a GP or psychiatrist. Online pharmacies are convenient, but only use services registered with the General Pharmaceutical Council (GPhC). Look for the GPhC seal on the website and avoid any site that sells meds without a prescription.
When you order, the pharmacy will ask for your prescription details and may verify your identity. They’ll also give you a clear label with dosage instructions and a contact number in case you have questions. If a price looks too good to be true, it probably is – cheap copies can be ineffective or even dangerous.
What to Do If You Miss a Dose
Missing a dose happens. If it’s only been a few hours, take it as soon as you remember. If it’s almost time for your next dose, skip the missed one – don’t double up. Double‑dosing can spike side effects and make you feel worse.
Keep a medication diary or set an alarm on your phone. Many people find a weekly pill organizer helps avoid mix‑ups, especially when they’re juggling several prescriptions.
Bottom line: antipsychotics can be life‑changing when used correctly, but they need careful monitoring. Talk openly with your doctor, report any side effects, and use a trusted GPhC‑registered pharmacy for refills. With the right support, you can keep symptoms under control and stay focused on what matters most in your life.
